Prospective Students

"Whether or not you reach your goals in life depends entirely on how well you prepare for them and how badly you want them. You're eagles! Stretch your wings and fly to the sky."

Program Eligibility

Dr Chevelle Newsome with student

To be eligible to participate in the California State University, Sacramento McNair Scholars Program, students must meet the following requirements:

1. Be a first generation college student and meet the federal income guidelines, and/or be underrepresented in graduate education. A first generation college student is someone whose parent(s) or guardian(s) did not earn a baccalaureate degree.

2. Completion of 60 units prior to summer research program.

3. Enrolled at California State University Sacramento on a full-time basis (minimum 12 units).

4. A demonstrated commitment and desire to seek a Ph.D. in an academic discipline.

5. Must have a minimum 2.8 GPA and making satisfactory progress toward a baccalaureate degree.

6. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

7. Willing to commit to program requirements. There is approximately a two-year commitment required for the program and a 10 year tracking requirement.

Benifits of Program

  • Opportunity to work with a faculty mentor;
  • $2,800 stipend for summer research;
  • Research training and scholarly experiences, including free attendance and participation in national conferences;
  • Counseling through the graduate school graduate admission process;
  • Application fee waivers from participating graduate schools;
  • GRE preparations and application fee waivers;
  • Publication of your research in the McNair Scholars Journal
  • Cultural Events
  • $500 allocation to travel to the Grad School of your choice;
  • Strengthening of academic and research skills.

How to Apply

1. Fill out application form completely.

2. Obtain 3 letters of recommendation attesting to potential for study at the graduate level.

3. Write a statement of purpose.

4. Secure grade transcripts from all institutions attended.

Contact Information

The California State University Sacramento McNair Scholars Program is located in the Riverfront Center, Room 203.

The McNair Scholars office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To find out more information about the McNair Scholars Program:

Call: 916.278.5118 

Fax: 916.278.3305

Email: mcnair@csus.edu

This program has been partially funded by a US Department of Education Grant and in-kind contribution from California State University, Sacramento.